Mănăstirea Cetățuia Iași

Cetățuia Monastery rises on a hill at the edge of Iași, offering one of the finest views over the old capital of Moldavia. It was founded in the second half of the seventeenth century by the ruler Gheorghe Duca, who conceived it as a fortified complex, with thick walls, defensive towers, and a princely palace, meant to serve as a refuge in troubled times. The church, of triconch plan in the Moldavian style, preserves period wall painting and a valuable iconostasis. Within the enclosure are also a Gothic hall and wide cellars, testimonies to the site's role as a princely residence.

From the monastery's plateau opens a broad panorama over the city and the surrounding hills. Visitors can walk through the fortified enclosure and admire the blend of religious and defensive roles. A pause at the viewpoint is recommended for the vista over Iași.